Hormonal acne can be a common side effect when starting testosterone, as the increase in testosterone levels can lead to an overproduction of sebum (oil) in the skin, resulting in clogged pores and acne breakouts. Dealing with hormonal acne when starting testosterone may require some specific strategies. Here are some tips that may help:
- Keep your skin clean: Regularly cleanse your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and bacteria from your skin. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleansers that can irritate the skin and make acne worse. I use cetaphil, it's cheap and everywhere.
- Avoid touching your face: Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oils from your hands to your face, which can exacerbate acne. Try to avoid touching your face throughout the day, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before applying any skincare products.
- Moisturize: Contrary to what you might think, moisturizing is still important even if you have oily skin. Using a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer can help maintain your skin's moisture balance and prevent it from overproducing oil. I use Cetaphil moisturizer too because it's so cheap and convenient.
- Use non-comedogenic products: Look for skincare and cosmetic products that are labeled as non-comedogenic, which means they are less likely to clog your pores and contribute to acne breakouts.
- Avoid squeezing or picking at pimples: Squeezing or picking at acne can cause further inflammation and potentially lead to scarring. It's best to avoid this temptation and let your acne heal naturally. Try pimple patches instead, they really help me.
- Be cautious with makeup: If you wear makeup, choose oil-free or non-comedogenic products and remove your makeup thoroughly before going to bed to prevent clogged pores.
- Consult with a dermatologist: If you're struggling with hormonal acne despite your best efforts, consider consulting with a dermatologist who can prescribe medications or provide other treatment options tailored to your skin's needs. Some common treatments for hormonal acne may include topical or oral medications such as retinoids, antibiotics, or hormonal therapy.
